Editor's Note: This is the second installment of a four-part series as Gophersports.com gets to know Tubby Smith's second recruiting class at the U of M. An on-camera interview with Mike Grimm is also included.

Gophersports: Going through the recruiting process you received offers from plenty of schools.What made you choose Minnesota?Royce White: “I like Minnesota, I grew up here. I like being in the state and I like the people of Minnesota. I like the university and I always wanted to play for the Gophers.”

GS: Are you excited that you will play in front of friends and family?White: “It’s definitely a big piece. It’s good to have that support group close to you.”

GS: What are your goals for your first season?White: “I want to help my team win ball games.”

GS: What are your career goals?White: “I want to be a good teammate. I want everyone to remember that about me.”

GS: Is there anyone you pattern your style of game after?White: “I would have to say Lebron [James]. I like to be physical by using a lot of power and force. At the same time, I take pride in my ability to dish the ball and set up my teammates.”

GS: Earlier you told a story about how you went to the Como Zoo and a silverback gorilla’s hand was pressed against the glass and your hand was just as big as his. Do you feel like having big hands is an advantage?White: “When it comes to dribbling and pulling up off of the dribble I can control the ball a lot easier than others because of the size of my hands."